Do fat-dissolving injections reduce submental fat?

What question did the researchers ask?

The review compared deoxycholic-acid injections with placebo for submental fat and examined both efficacy and potential sponsorship bias.

What did they actually find?

Treatment performed better than placebo across the analysed efficacy outcomes, but local reactions—including pain, swelling, numbness, redness, nodules and altered sensation—were more frequent.

What should you keep in mind?

Only two trials were rated at low risk of bias and every included study showed potential industry bias. Certainty was low to moderate and the findings apply to submental fat, not every injectable or body area marketed as fat dissolving.

What does this mean for a Highfield consultation?

Evidence is indication-specific, with low-to-moderate certainty and potential industry bias. We consider that finding alongside independent guidance, your medical history, examination and priorities. It can support a better-informed decision, but it cannot promise a personal result or decide whether treatment is suitable.